I knew I had to visit Sydney at least once while I was in Australia. As much as I enjoy the Gold Coast, I live in a suburb and there are only so many things to do around here. My roommate, a resident Sydney local and expert, even wrote me a list of things to do during my visit. This list is a combination of her recommendations and things I stumbled upon because I’m terrible at planning, so you can be sure it’s a good one!
Sydney Opera House
While I was in Sydney, I knew that I needed to at least see the Opera House from afar in order to be a real tourist. I also didn’t care to deal with my mom’s wrath if I were to go without getting a picture of it for her. I’m here to report that it looks exactly like it does in photos, give or take the 501293812 vacation dads standing in the middle of the walkway to take pictures. It is a very impressive structure , and I was happy to be able to visit and go inside. However, the area outside the building itself is basically a giant wind tunnel (imagine International Village except 400-500x worse) so, unless you intend to unintentionally flash the entirety of Sydney, I’d advise you not to wear a dress, as I did.
Big Hostel
We stayed at Big Hostel, located near Central Station in Surrey Hills. This was very convenient because it was within walking distance from food, shopping, and public transportation. Like any city, Sydney had its fair share of traffic and commotion, but this area felt quite peaceful and I was glad to be able to spend time there. The hostel itself was an amazing value for the location, in addition to the fact that it offered WiFi and free breakfast. Our room slept eight people, all of whom were very pleasant and respectful of the space. I would definitely stay there again due to the prime location and overall positive experience.
Bondi Beach
Another thing I had to do during my trip was visit Bondi Beach! At first, I was pretty skeptical because a beach is a beach, and I didn’t quite understand all the hype. I even asked my friend, a Sydney local, why everyone loves it so much. She said “It’s just famous.” (profound, I know). But, I’m so glad I went. The waves were much nicer than anything I’ve experienced on the Gold Coast so far (I love to not feel like I’m about to drown/ get attacked by a shark/ be stung by a jellyfish while I’m trying to have a leisurely swim) and the water was much prettier (e.g. better for taking trendy Huji photos). There’s also a beautiful pool in the ocean that, from the looks of it, was more for instagramming than for actual swimming. On weekends, Bondi also has markets, where vendors sell a variety of neat stuff like jewelry, art, and clothing. If I didn’t have $2 to my name, I would’ve bought the place out.
The Grounds of Alexandria
This restaurant and coffee shop inside of an old pie factory was my favorite part of the trip by far. The atmosphere was something I’ve never quite experienced before, and would recommend anyone visiting the area to stop here. I was very pleased with the vegetarian options and very creative menu. In addition to food, there’s a flower shop, and FARM ANIMALS (I was persuaded to go in the first place with the promise that there was a pig. And it was true! There was a lovely pig, as well as chickens). When I thought I couldn’t be any more impressed, I was blown away yet again by their selection of handmade donuts AND a lemonade stand! Flowers, pigs, and donuts, dreams do come true.
Museum of Contemporary Art
I will preface this by saying that I’m not always the biggest fan of art museums, sue me. As hip as I pretend to be, I just don’t care to be stared down by all the edgy museum goers who look like they just returned from an Urban Outfitters catalog shoot while I pretend to understand art that isn’t designed for me because I’m literally not cool. But, I must say, this museum was pretty nifty. The outside deck had a great view, and I was very entertained by a mini photography exhibit where I got to take tons of stylish, wonderfully lit photos of myself so I can continue to convince my social media following that I am indeed the type of person who visits contemporary art museums in their spare time. And honestly, I was impressed by the artwork I saw there. To all museum fans out there, this place is for you.
Bronte Baths
This is a much cooler, more rugged version of the aforementioned Bondi pools. It’s also free. It’s a bit of a hike from the beach, but it was well worth it. The pool is situated along the side of the shore right above the water, so there’s a great view of the beach. I even faced my fears and jumped off the side of it into the ocean because some little kid there told me it wasn’t scary and I wouldn’t jump onto a rock (it was scary and I did jump onto a rock). It was easily the most picturesque part of my Sydney excursion.
